Difficulty in taking medication and stroke among older adults with systemic arterial hypertension: the Fibra Study

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Systemic Arterial Hypertension (SAH) is a major risk factor for stroke in older adults.
• Medication adherence is crucial for managing SAH and preventing complications like stroke.
• Understanding factors contributing to non-adherence, such as difficulty taking medication, is essential for effective interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between difficulty in taking medication and stroke risk in older adults with SAH.
• To explore the influence of living arrangements on this association.
• To examine the role of financial difficulty in affording medications.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study involving 3,502 older adults with SAH from the Brazilian Frailty in Brazilian Older People (Fibra) Study.
• Data collected included medical diagnosis of stroke and self-reported medication-taking difficulties (adherence and financial).
• Multivariate logistic regression analysis was employed to assess associations.

Main Results:

• Older men with SAH reporting difficulty taking medication (unintentional non-adherence) had higher odds of stroke.
• This association was stronger for men living with a partner compared to those living alone.
• No significant association was found between difficulty affording prescribed medication and stroke in either sex.

Conclusions:

• Unintentional difficulty in taking medication is a significant factor associated with stroke in older men with SAH.
• Living arrangements, particularly cohabitation with a partner, may exacerbate stroke risk in this population.
• Primary care strategies should consider involving partners in SAH management to improve adherence and reduce stroke incidence.